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The first recorded European to sight Raraka Atoll was Captain Ireland in 1831.[2]

Raraka Atoll was visited by the historic United States Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842. Charles Wilkes reported: "The next day they reached Raraka Atoll and were allowed ashore to explore it on that and the following day. There they met about 40 peaceful islanders, who had native-born missionary among them. Their chief was missing his left hand, it having been bitten off by a shark."